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Tue, 22 Sep 2026

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 'Nightmare' for taxi drivers as fuel prices soar

Volunteer blood bike charity Freewheelers workers said they are also facing tough choices.
The price of fuel has increased significantly, with a barrel now costing above $108 (£80), up from $70 (£52) in June. Businesses across the region are struggling to make a profit, with some owners warning that they may have to reduce their services or pass on higher costs to customers. Petrol stations in rural areas are charging more due to higher transport costs and lower sales volumes. Some of the prices reported include: - £1.70 per litre in Bristol - £2.40 in Hullavington, Wiltshire - £1.86 in Upton Noble, Somerset - £1.96 per litre near Whaddon The owners of taxi firms and petrol stations say they are facing "continual pressure to lowball" their prices due to the increasing costs. Freewheelers Blood Bike charity, which delivers medical products across Bristol, Somerset, Bath, and west Wiltshire, is also struggling with fuel costs and may have to reduce its services if prices continue to rise.